STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 362, 24 May 1928, Page 15

STRAND

“THE MERRY WIDOW” An outstanding entertainment is being presented to Auckland picturegoers, at the Strand Theatre, where “The Merry Widow” is the chief attraction. As Prince Danilo, John Gilbert gives a dashing and heart-warming performance. Casting precedent to the winds, turning a deaf ear to his outraged family, the reckless young prince throws himself head-over-heels into a love affair with an unknown little dancer, and sets the whole kingdom talking. The blusterings of his father, the half-veiled sneers of his cousin, the Crown Prince, the whisperings of the scandalised but delighted courtiers, deterred him not. But the tears of his mother and the revelation of her own love sacrificed on the altar of duty at last brought him to a stop. A very talented cast*will support Gilbert in the presentation of the “widow,” including Mae Murray as Sally O’Hara, Roy D’Arcy, that restrained and cultured player, as the Crown Prince; George Fawcett as King Nikita, and Tully Marshall as Baron Sadoja. Preceding the photoplay is a very effective prologue during which Mile Valeska and Mr. Len Wilson present the famous “Merry Widow” waltz. Miss 1 Ina Bosworth is the solo violinist. Miss Dale Austen (“Miss New Zealand”) is appearing on the stage in conjunction with a vividly interesting film, “Miss New Zealand in Movieland,” which depicts her royal progress in California, as well as her : work and adventures in the MetroGoldwyn studios. A special musical treat is* given music lovers by Eve Bentley and the Strand Symphony Orchestra, who play the original “Merry Widow” orchestral score.